Can You Turn Any Bathroom into a New Wet Room?

Picture stepping into a sleek, open-plan shower space with no clunky cubicles or awkward steps in sight. That’s the appeal of a new wet room; a modern, accessible, and stylish upgrade that’s becoming more and more popular across UK homes.

But what if your bathroom is small, oddly shaped, or tucked under a sloped roof? Is wet room installation still a realistic option? In this blog, we’ll unpack what’s possible, what’s practical, and how our experienced team at M J Burt can help you make it happen, thanks to our years of experience handling new plumbing installations.

What is a Wet Room?

A wet room is essentially a fully waterproofed bathroom where the shower area is level with the rest of the floor. Instead of a traditional shower tray or cubicle, the water drains directly through a built-in gradient in the floor. What sets it apart is the seamless, open design.

For many homeowners, a new wet room offers more than just a clean, contemporary aesthetic. It’s easier to clean, space-efficient, and ideal for people with mobility issues thanks to the level access shower. It also adds a touch of luxury that can enhance both everyday comfort and property value.

Can Any Bathroom Be Converted into a Wet Room?

You might be wondering whether any bathroom can be turned into a wet room? The short answer is, in most cases, yes. But not without a few important considerations.

Every bathroom conversion depends on the existing space. Larger bathrooms offer more design freedom, but even compact rooms can often be converted with smart planning. The real factors at play are the current layout, access to plumbing, the type of flooring, and ceiling height.

Homes with wooden floors may need extra structural work to support drainage, whereas solid concrete bases come with their own set of challenges.

So, while most bathrooms can be converted, the key is assessing feasibility early, and that’s where M J Burt comes in.

Structural and Practical Requirements

Creating a new wet room isn’t just about removing a bath and adding a showerhead. There are several essential technical requirements to ensure the space functions properly and lasts for years to come:

• Waterproofing: The entire room, especially the floor and lower walls, must be tanked to prevent leaks and water damage.
• Drainage: The floor must be angled slightly to direct water towards a central or linear drain.
• Underfloor Heating: This not only adds comfort but helps the floor dry faster, reducing the risk of mould or mildew.
• Ventilation: Proper extraction is critical to prevent excessive moisture build-up, which can affect walls, ceilings, and fixtures.

Done right, these elements create a safe, efficient, and durable wet room that stands up to daily use.

Design Implications and Choices

Design plays a big role in both the appearance and usability of your new space. A well-thought-out bathroom conversion should feel like a natural extension of your home’s style, while offering practical features for daily living.

Here are a few key design considerations:

• Tiling and Flooring: Choose non-slip, water-resistant materials that suit your taste, whether that’s classic ceramic or modern stone.
• Layout: Decide between a fully open space or one with glass partitions to contain splashes and maintain warmth.
• Accessibility: Features like grab bars, wall-mounted basins, and bench seating make a level access shower suitable for users of all ages and abilities.
• Style: Whether you prefer clean, minimalist lines or something more traditional, your wet room can be tailored to match.

The right design not only enhances comfort but also ensures that your investment delivers lasting satisfaction.

Professional Installation Is Key

In nearly all cases, professional installation is the key to success. From hidden waterproof layers to precise wet room installation, the outcome hinges on technical know-how and proper execution. That’s why choosing professional bathroom fitters like our team at M J Burt makes all the difference.

We’re trained to spot and solve issues before they become expensive problems. We understand UK building regulations, manage drainage gradients properly, and ensure the entire space is fully waterproofed.

The benefits of hiring a professional over attempting DIY include:

• Guaranteed compliance with safety standards
• Proper installation of drainage and waterproofing
• Access to high-quality materials and expert guidance
• A clean, efficient finish that adds long-term value

If you’re considering a bathroom conversion to accommodate a wet room, get in touch using the contact details below.

Ready to Create Your New Wet Room?

With the right planning and expert help, a new wet room is more than achievable; it’s one of the smartest ways to modernise your bathroom.

At M J Burt, our professional bathroom fitters are here to guide you every step of the way. Whether you’re ready to get started or just need advice, give us a call on 01202 721955 or use our contact form to reach out.

As a family-run business based in Poole since 1988, we bring both local knowledge and top-quality craftsmanship to every new plumbing installation. Plus, we’ve got you covered for all repairs and general plumbing work, too.